On a clear night with a bright full moon, no one could blame you for wanting to make a living out of gazing into the sky at planets and the odd shooting star.

But how easy is it to make a career out of stargazing? And do you really need complicated equipment like astronomical telescopes?

There are several skills and personality traits that a professional astronomer needs. The first is – perhaps obviously – excellent observational skills. The second is a meticulous eye for detail, in order to correctly and methodically record all date and observations. An analytical mind to help understand results and formulate theories is a must, and so is an aptitude for solitude. Being able to stay up late probably wouldn’t go amiss either!

Early study in the sciences, English and mathematics will provide a good intellectual grounding for the work involved in being an astronomer, while further study in astronomy (especially at research level) should help with getting that dream job.

Experience of visiting planetariums, observatories and museums will also help you learn about the nature of astronomy, while proving your commitment to potential employers.

Finally, it may be painful to accept but an expensive, potentially delicate piece of equipment such as astronomical telescopes are a vital tool for any serious astronomers. Those clear starlit nights may be few and far between, making your astronomical telescopes completely essential.

Astronomical scopes are your key to making a career out of astronomy if that is where you are aiming for. If you are only looking to experience astronomy as a hobby, then astronomical telescopes will be the key to your enjoyment.